Friday Travel Photo: Newport Beach, Calif.

On a recent trip to California, we decided to drive Route 1 along the coast, the scenic highway that overlooks coves, cliffs and beaches. On our way to Dana Point, we stopped in Orange County’s beach meccas, Newport and Laguna Beach. This shot was taken early on an overcast morning from the Newport Pier, which was packed with fishermen and sightseers. We loved the bright red pop of the coin-operated binoculars in contrast with the drab day. In the distance, you can see the Newport Beach’s shops and restaurants, stocked with flip-flops and fresh fish. Down on the beach, surfers made up most of the scene—a slight drizzle wasn’t holding them back.